What are copper concentrates used for?

Concentrates are the raw material for all copper smelters, which by processing it obtain an impure form of metallic copper, anode or blister copper, which is later used to produce high purity refined copper.

What is TC in copper?

Treatment Charge (TC) and Refining Charge (RC) are common- ly used in the terms of purchase for copper concentrate or nickel ore for refining. They are amounts designed to cover refining costs.

Is copper a refined metal?

Copper ore that is rich in sulfides is processed via pyrometallurgy, while copper ore that is rich in oxides is refined through hydrometallurgy….

Commodities
Silver	22.54	+0.03
Copper	4.27	-0.03
Palladium	1816.01	+10.01
Platinum	936.31	+3.31

How is copper concentrate sold?

Concentrates are typically sold on a CIF, CIFFO (Cost, Insurance, Freight Free Out, buyer pays for unloading) or FOB (Free Onboard Vessel) basis. Concentrate value is first determined by agreeing upon payable copper content. This takes account of smelter losses and will typically be 95% to 97% of the contained copper.

Is copper concentrate hazardous?

Fire and Explosion Hazards: Copper concentrate is not considered a fire or explosion hazard. However, it may burn if heated strongly enough and for sufficient time in a fire situation. When burning, it releases toxic and highly irritating sulphur dioxide gas (SO2).

What are treatment charges?

Treatment charges (TCs) are an important component of revenue for a smelter. They represent the cost of converting a tonne of concentrate into zinc metal paid by miners. TCs are negotiated between miners, traders and smelters on the benchmark or spot1 market, or via fixed contracts.

What is treatment charge refining charge?

Treatment and Refining Charges (TC/RCs) are the fees paid to smelters by mines for converting copper concentrate to copper cathode and key revenue source for smelters. Falling TCs are putting pressure on companies relying on external concentrate supplies.

How is copper refined from its ore?

Copper can be extracted from its ore by: The ore is treated with dilute sulfuric acid. This trickles slowly through the ore dissolving copper to form copper sulfate. The copper is recovered by electrolytic refining.

How much is a ton of copper concentrate?

As of November 15, the average TC price of SMM spot copper concentrate in 2019 was US $65.36 / ton.